PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums. If allowed to progress without treatment, they gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons, which irritate the gums. When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth may shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes affect the appearance of your smile as well as your ability to chew and speak.

We pride ourselves on being very conservative in our treatment recommendations,limiting surgery to the areas where it is absolutely necessary. Many times, the early stages of periodontal disease are best treated with non-surgical periodontal therapy. Even in severe cases, surgical therapy is often preceded by nonsurgical periodontal therapy. This is done to improve the overall tissue quality prior to surgery and also to help limit the areas requiring surgery.